
Nearly 195 Acres of Mountain Wilderness with Log Cabin, Private Drive, and Trout Stream Access in Highland County, Virginia
Hidden deep within the unspoiled landscape of McDowell, Virginia, this remarkable 194.77-acre property offers an extraordinary level of privacy, scale, and natural beauty. Set along the eastern side of Jack Mountain, the land feels remote and untouched, making it ideal for those seeking solitude, outdoor adventure, or a true escape from modern noise and congestion. This is not simply a property—it is a vast mountain retreat where nature defines the rhythm of daily life.
Accessed by an approximately 1.5-mile-long private driveway, the journey to the cabin itself reinforces the sense of seclusion. The drive winds through mature forest and rising terrain before reaching a small cabin positioned near the top of Black Bear Ridge. By the time you arrive, the outside world feels far away, replaced by quiet woods, open sky, and long views of surrounding land.
The cabin, built in 2006, features a two-bedroom, two-bathroom layout and a log veneer exterior that blends naturally into its wooded surroundings. Though modest in size, the structure is thoughtfully designed to balance rustic character with comfort. Inside, the all-wood interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, emphasizing the traditional cabin aesthetic. The addition of a second bathroom attached to the primary bedroom enhances functionality and provides modern convenience without detracting from the cabin’s classic feel. This space works well as a seasonal getaway, a hunting lodge, or a quiet year-round retreat for those who value simplicity and connection to the land.
One of the most unique features of this property is its direct connection to the Highland Wildlife Management Area. A trail just beyond the cabin links seamlessly to this protected area, dramatically expanding recreational opportunities. From extended hikes and wildlife observation to exploring miles of preserved land, the surrounding terrain becomes an extension of your own property. This adjacency ensures long-term privacy while preserving the natural environment around you.
Lower on the property, along Route 250, Crab Run adds a completely different but equally appealing dimension. With more than 1,000 feet of wild trout water, this section of the stream is a valuable natural asset. Known locally for a peaceful swimming and fishing spot called the Blue Hole, the area invites quiet afternoons spent wading, casting a line, or simply sitting beside moving water. The presence of a cold, clear trout stream enhances both recreational value and the overall character of the land.
Wildlife is abundant throughout the acreage. Deer, birds, and other forest animals move freely across the ridges and valleys, making the property especially appealing to hunters, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. The sheer size of the land ensures that these encounters feel organic rather than intrusive. At night, the absence of light pollution reveals an expansive, dark sky, ideal for stargazing. On clear evenings, constellations stretch across the horizon, offering a reminder of just how far removed this setting is from urban environments.
The terrain itself provides long-term flexibility. With nearly 195 acres at your disposal, the land supports a range of uses—from conservation and recreation to selective timber management or additional structures, where permitted. The scale allows you to explore, develop trails, or simply preserve the land as a private wilderness holding.
Overall, this Highland County property stands out for its combination of acreage, privacy, and natural features. A private mountain cabin, direct access to protected wildlife land, trout-bearing water, and expansive forested terrain come together to create a setting that is increasingly rare. It is a place designed for slowing down, breathing deeply, and reconnecting with the outdoors on a meaningful level.
For more information or to explore this exceptional property further, please contact the listing agent through the Zillow link provided below the photos.
















Listed on Zillow.




